In Search of Perfect Client Service

I was listening to NPR today.  There was a story about how Congress could not work on climate change legislation because it was focused on the health care debate.  It reminded me of a time when I asked a colleague if we could schedule a meeting to discuss a new case, only to be told that the lawyer was not available for the next month because he was writing a brief.  He was serious.  And it wasn't a big deal brief.

So my question is this:  aren't we supposed to be able to walk and chew gum at the same time?  Or are those who can keep several balls in there just "special."